We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Estela Leyva. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Estela below.
Estela, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today The first dollar you earn in a new endeavor is always special. We’d love to hear about how you got your first client that wasn’t a friend or family.
My very first client emerged from a rather unorthodox campaign – 100 cold calls to real estate agents. I targeted properties that were either freshly listed or had been lingering on the market. Let’s just say it was an experience! I didn’t know this client personally, which made it a valuable lesson in stepping outside my comfort zone.
Initially, those calls were nerve-wracking. I vividly recall reading my script and pausing for what felt like an eternity. But after a bit of mental conditioning and some (let’s be honest) self-coaching, the conversations flowed more naturally. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Like many entrepreneurs, I traded in my power suit for creativity! After a rewarding 25-year career in public service, including leading teams, managing call centers, and even a brief stint as a policy writer, something shifted when my first grandchild arrived. I craved a career that allowed me to be fully present for my family while building something truly meaningful.
I’ve always had a creative streak. As a kid, I remember winning awards for my drawings. This passion for aesthetics led me to develop a keen interest in furniture design and the evolution of textiles throughout history.
Today, at Stellhous, we help homeowners and their real estate agents transform houses into showstoppers. We specialize in staging occupied homes, which can be a real challenge. Our goal is to create spaces that feel both inviting and beautifully styled, while still respecting the homeowner’s existing taste yet curating it so it attracts the next homebuyer. Its a delicate balance.
We believe every home has its own unique personality, and we curate our staging approach accordingly. Think of us as a boutique service – personalized and attentive to detail. We stay sharp by attending industry trainings and workshops, and our certifications in both residential and vacation rental design demonstrate our commitment to excellence. Whether you’re selling your home or simply looking to enhance your living space, we’re here to help you create something truly extraordinary.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
Ah, a loaded question! Where do I begin? (Laughs)
To borrow a fantastic analogy from designer Corey Damen Jenkins, there are two ways to make a cake: microwave it or bake it. You’ll end up with something resembling a cake, but which one will truly satisfy?
At Stellhous, we choose to ‘bake’ our staging services. We don’t just throw furniture into a room and hope for the best. Our approach is meticulous, considering factors like scale, flow, and color theory. We carefully analyze the home’s architecture, its history, and any unique features, all with the aim of showcasing its best qualities. It’s about the details – the subtle touches that truly capture attention. That’s where a designer’s eye makes all the difference.This is why , we are worth it.
A non creative or someone who may not fully appreciate the artistry of home staging might gravitate towards the most budget-friendly option. However, they may overlook the fact that professional staging, when done well, can significantly increase the perceived value of a home, ultimately leading to faster and more profitable sales.
Think of it this way: just as a skilled stylist can transform a person’s appearance, a skilled stager can transform a house. It’s about creating an emotional connection with potential buyers, showcasing the home’s best features, and presenting it in the most appealing light. This requires a deep understanding of design principles and a keen eye for detail – a true art form.”
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Social media has definitely been a journey! I always remind myself that I’m building a brand, and that brand needs to authentically reflect our mission, vision, and values. This means keeping the focus firmly on what we do best: creating beautiful spaces.
You won’t find any divisive topics on my feed – no politics, no religious discussions. It’s strictly pretty pictures! We showcase inspiring designs, highlight stunning materials, and share successful staging case studies. This is a non-negotiable for me and anyone who works with us.
While I value strong business partnerships, I recognize that my social media presence is an extension of my brand. Consistency is key, and I learned that the hard way last year. Six months of consistent posting was exhausting, but the increased engagement made it all worthwhile. It’s a testament to the power of showcasing our work and connecting with our audience.
A mentor of mine once told me , “Perception is everything and the world is watching”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stellhous.com
- Instagram: @stellhous
- Facebook: Stellhous
- Youtube: Stellhous
